What is Osteopathy?

Osteopathy is an established, recognised system of diagnosis and treatment, that lays its main emphasis on the structural integrity of the body’s neuro-muscular-skeletal systems.

Osteopathy uses many of the diagnostic procedures used in conventional medical assessment and diagnosis. However it is distinctive in that it uses a holistic (whole person) approach to the individual and attempts to incorporate all aspects that maybe contributing to the patients wellbeing; be it occupation, lifestyle habits, diet, sport etc.

Osteopathy works to find health within the individual by helping to improve the body’s structural integrity via techniques such as manipulation, articulation, massage and advice.

Dr Andrew Taylor Still – the founder of Osteopathy in 1874 termed this as ‘Structure Governs Function’ – and he maintained that one of the main reasons for pain and illness was because of a structural abnormality.

In 1993 The Osteopaths Act was passed by Parliament where it formally recognised and regulated the profession. An Osteopath must be trained by a recognised institution and registered with The General Osteopathic Council in order to practice.